New Toyota Hilux detailed
The new Toyota Hilux will officially launch in SA in June 2026. We detail the upcoming, ninth-generation model…
Image: Toyota
Introduced in 1968, over 58 years, the ‘Hilux’ nameplate has carved a place for itself in automotive history, both globally and in South Africa, where it’s been produced for over five decades and remains the best-selling vehicle. Following eight generations, the hour has now come for the Japanese automaker’s popular bakkie to write a new chapter in its long-standing legacy.
While its profile remains familiar to its forebear’s, the ninth-generation Hilux sports decidedly sharper exterior styling, front and rear. A neat addition, the redesigned rear bumper incorporates side steps for easier access to the load bay.
The new Hilux retains its forebear’s IMV (Innovative international Multi-purpose Vehicle) architecture, which has underpinned every generation of Hilux since the seventh iteration was introduced in 2004. However, a few revisions, including the fitment of new hydraulic engine mounts and shear-type cabin mounts, have been made to the ladder-frame platform to improve overall comfort, rigidity and crash performance.
Measuring 5 320 mm long and 1 855 mm wide, the ninth-generation Hilux double-cab is similar in size to the outgoing model. The wheelbase remains unchanged, at 3 085 mm. However, comparing the spec sheets of the two reveals the new car’s roofline is taller, while the front track is slightly narrower, 1 530 vs 1 540 mm. The new Hilux has a braked towing capacity of up to 3 500 kg, a payload capacity of up to one tonne and a water-fording depth of 700 mm.
The independent coil-spring front/rigid-axle leaf-spring rear suspension arrangement has also been updated. While the setup has been geared for heavy-duty applications in work-oriented derivatives, the leisure-focused models gain bespoke spring rates for improved ride comfort and everyday drivability. The latest model also adopts electric power steering – a first for a Hilux – to deliver improved steering feel and response in all driving conditions.
Image: Toyota
Carried over from the eighth iteration, the new Hilux was revealed with Toyota’s tried-and-trusted 2.8GD-6 powertrain in “standard” and 48 V mild-hybrid formats — the latter setup incorporating an 8.4 kW/65 N.m electric motor generator and DC-DC converter. As a reminder, the 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel unit produces 150 kW and 500 N.m of torque, available from 1 600 r/min, when coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, or 420 N.m (from a low 1 400 r/min) in six-speed manual models.
Power is delivered to the road via either a 4×2 drivetrain or part-time four-wheel drive. Depending on the spec, the 4×4 gains a rear diff-lock and Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) traction control system. MTS regulates throttle and braking parameters to regulate wheelspin and improve traction on various surfaces. In addition to an ‘Automatic’ setting that detects traction and terrain shifts, the system also incorporates selectable ‘Mud & Sand’, ‘Rock/Dirt’ and ‘Deep snow’ presets.
Toyota has yet to confirm whether the new Hilux will be offered with the previous generation’s 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine. However, as part of the carmaker’s multi-pathway approach to mobility, there has been a new development in the powertrain lineup — the introduction of a battery-electric drivetrain.
Similarly, Toyota has remained tight-lipped about the next GR-Sport. However, the flagship will undoubtedly gain the full GR-S treatment, including a wide bodykit, wider fore and aft tracks, upgraded suspension, and bespoke design elements. We also expect that the pinnacle ninth generation will once again employ an uprated version of the firm’s 2.8GD-6 engine.
Image: Toyota
The most notable upgrades have arguably been reserved for the interior – the design of which is influenced by the Land Cruiser Prado’s. Taking pride of place on the redesigned facia, the outgoing iteration’s 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen has made way for a 12.3-inch unit with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Higher-specced variants gain digital instrumentation of similar size, while a 7.0-inch item features lower down the range. Wireless smartphone charging is included with select models. The climate control is operated via physical buttons for ease of use.
The redesigned steering wheel is adjustable for rake and reach, and sports an updated button layout for improved ergonomics. Depending on the specification grade, the newly developed seats feature eight-way electric adjustment and heating.
According to Leon Theron, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Toyota South Africa Motors,“The next-generation Hilux embodies Toyota’s global vision of sustainable mobility, while staying true to our customers’ needs. In South Africa, Hilux isn’t just a vehicle – it’s a way of life. The new model blends a modern cabin with the strength, reliability, and performance our customers know and trust.”
Full feature in the February 2026 issue of CAR magazine.
Click here to browse thousands of new and used vehicles here with CARmag!
Also read
- New Toyota Hilux Spotted in SA
- Every Toyota On the Horizon for SA in 2026
- Every Bakkie Confirmed for SA in 2026
- New Toyota Hilux awarded top marks for safety
- New Toyota Hilux ad receives complaints for ‘dangerous’ behaviour
- New Toyota Land Cruiser FJ to get Hilux’s diesel engine – report
- New Toyota Land Cruiser FJ to cost less than top-of-the-range Hilux
The post New Toyota Hilux detailed appeared first on CAR Magazine.
The Car Guide
Comments
Post a Comment